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Long Island Same-Sex Divorce Lawyer
Laws regarding same-sex marriage in New York and throughout the United States have changed tremendously in recent years. Despite these recent changes, many in the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender communities continue to encounter discrimination throughout their lives. The Law Office of Louis L. Sternberg provides representation to all members of the LGBT community in divorce matters. We have successfully represented clients on such matters including same-sex standing to seek custody, child support between same-sex partners and same-sex divorce.
Same Sex Marriage In New York
New York’s Marriage Equality Law was passed June 24, 2011 and took effect on July 24, 2011. The Legislative Intent portion of the bill stated that “[s]ame-sex couples should have the same access as others to the protections, responsibilities, rights, obligations, and benefits of civil marriage” and that “[i]t is the intent of the legislature that the marriages of same-sex and different-sex couples be treated equally in all respects under the law.” Until the passage of that law, New York did not recognize marriages between same-sex couples.
Differences Between Opposite-Sex and Same-Sex Divorce
The majority of issues that arise in same-sex or LGBT divorces are exactly the same as the issues which arise in opposite-sex divorce. Same-sex divorces can resolve issues of child custody, visitation, child support, maintenance, equitable distribution, etc. Additionally, same-sex divorces, like opposite-sex divorces can be either contested or uncontested.
Although most same-sex divorce issues are not unique, there are a few areas where they differ tremendously including federal tax consequences and the ability to obtain a divorce in a state that does not allow for or recognize same-sex marriages.
Same-Sex Custody Cases and Same-Sex Standing to Seek Custody
Until very recently, the non-biological parent of a child born into a same-sex family was faced with the difficult problem of “standing” or the legal ability to assert a right to seek custody or visitation with the child. Recent case law has simplified these issues but properly pleading and proving standing is still an essential and complex matter. The Law Office of Louis L. Sternberg successfully litigated standing / custody cases before these recent changes and since that time.
Suffolk County Same-Sex Divorce Lawyer
Every matrimonial case case is different regardless of whether it is a same-sex couple or an opposite-sex couple. At the Law Office of Louis L. Sternberg, we make ourselves being accessible to you at all times during your divorce and after. When you are ready to discuss your case, please contact us to schedule a free consultation. The advice of experienced counsel in a divorce is essential regardless of whether you are a same-sex or opposite-sex couple. The Law Office of Louis L. Sternberg will ensure that you understand the rights and that those rights are protected in a same-sex marital dissolution.
Contact the Law Office of Louis L. Sternberg to arrange a confidential consultation. We serve Nassau County and Suffolk County, Long Island.